Except for a few 8k options and 720p or 1080p TVs, most TVs sold nowadays have a 4k resolution. Because a lot of streaming content is in 4k, having a 4k TV is advantageous because it eliminates the need to upscale anything. When looking for the best 4k TV, there are numerous factors to consider, including where you intend to watch TV.
OLED displays are ideal for managing content in low-light environments, whereas LED displays become much brighter when used in bright environments. Choosing one TV over another can come down to personal preference, and there is no such thing as a perfect choice. We’ve purchased and tested over 350 TVs, and our recommendations for the best 4k TVs are listed below. Also, see our offers for the best TVs, smart TVs, and 4k gaming TVs.
What is 4K?
4K is known by several aliases, including Ultra HD, UHD, and 2160p. For the typical consumer, these are identical.
The resolution of a 4K television is 3,840 by 2,160 pixels. That’s four times as many pixels as a standard HDTV, for 8.3 million. With this many pixels, the pixel density is increased, resulting in a picture with greater clarity, definition, and texture.
What is the difference between Ultra HD and 4K?
True 4K refers to digital cinema projectors’ 4096 x 2160 resolution. In the consumer market, UHD refers to a resolution of 3840 x 2160, which is the resolution of TVs.
Therefore, technically 4K is the incorrect term, but the two are interchangeable.
What does 4K provide?
4K’s higher resolution improves definition and clarity. 4K television is most effective on giant screens; a 55-inch or larger display is optimal. The availability of 40-inch 4K televisions enables viewers to sit closer to the screen.
8K is available but has not yet reached maturity for various reasons. Compared to 4K models, they are still relatively expensive, although prices have been falling steadily. To learn more about 8K, visit our explanation.
10 Best Deals On 4K TVs
To assist you in deciding, we have divided our TV deals into three categories based on screen size: 60-85 inches, 50-59 inches, and 32-49 inches. You will also find our top pick for the best TV deal of the week, representing the best overall value for most people.
See more of this week’s best TV deals, and keep in mind that this list is continually updated with all the best offers, so you can be confident you’re viewing the best TV sales from around the web.
1. Amazon Fire TV 65" Omni Series 4K
Specification
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160
- Display resolution: 4K UHD
- High Dynamic Range (HDR) format: HDR 10, HLG, Dolby Vision
- Backlight type: Direct LED
- Refresh rate: 60 Hz
- Screen size: 65”
- Viewable display size: 64.5”
- HDMI ports: 3 HDMI 2.0 + 1 HDMI 2.1 with eARC
- Ethernet: 1 Ethernet port
- Excellent contrast.
- Great selection of streaming apps.
- Decent reflection handling.
- Slow response time.
- Disappointing accuracy and limited calibration settings.
- Image degrades at an angle.
2. Hisense ULED 65-inch Android 4K Smart TV
Specification
- Screen Size: 65 Inches
- Brand: Hisense
- Supported Internet Services: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Instant Video, YouTube
- Resolution: 4K
- Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
- Special Feature: Game Mode Pro, 4K ULED, Alexa Built-in, Google Assistant; Voice Remote, Dolby Vison and Dolby Atmos, Quantum Dot Color QLEDGame Mode Pro, 4K ULED, Alexa Built-in, Google Assistant; Voice Remote, Dolby Vison and Dolby Atmos, Quantum Dot Color QLED
- Awesome image quality
- Gaming-focused features
- Affordable
- Built-in mic with on/off switch
- Audio quality could be better
- Voice controls have some issues
- Only two 4K/120Hz ports
3. TCL 55S425 55 inch 4K Smart LED Roku TV
Specification
- Direct lit LED produces great picture quality | Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant | Dual-band Wi-Fi & Ethernet port
- TV Dimensions | Without Stand – 49″ W x 28.4″ H x 3.1″ D | With Stand – 49″ W x 30.6″ H x 8″ D | Stand Separation distance – 42.3” | Refresh rate – 120 Hz CMI | Wall mount – 200 millimeter x 200 millimeter VESA | Panel resolution – 3840 x 2160
- Pairs 4K ultra HD picture clarity with the contrast, color, and detail of high dynamic Range (HDR) for the most lifelike picture
- Smart functionality delivers all your favorite content with over 500,000 movies and TV episodes, accessible through the simple and intuitive Roku TV
- Inputs/outputs: HDMI – 3 | USB – 1 | Ethernet – 1 | RF Input – 1 | SPDIF Digital Audio Optical – 1 | Audio Output Headphone – 1 | AV Input – Composite Video + L&R Audio In
- Affordable 4H TV with HDR
- Solid Roku TV experience
- Excellent responsiveness for gaming
- No local dimming
- Unimpressive motion handling
- Limited HDR support
4. SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class Neo QLED 4K UHD QN90A
Specification
- Screen Size: 65 Inches
- Brand: SAMSUNG
- Supported Internet Services: Streaming Services
- Display Technology: Neo QLED
- Resolution: 4K
- Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
- Excellent native contrast ratio.
- Great Mini LED full-array local dimming feature.
- Decent viewing angle.
- Incredible HDR peak brightness.
- A bit of blooming noticeable around bright objects.
5. LG OLED C1 Series 65” 4k Smart TV
Specification
- Screen Size: 65 Inches
- Brand: LG
- Supported Internet Services: Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, Vudu, YouTube
- Display Technology: OLED
- Resolution: 4K
- Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
- Near-infinite contrast ratio.
- Near-instantaneous response time.
- Wide viewing angles.
- Perfect blacks with no visible blooming.
- Risk of permanent burn-in.
- May not be bright enough for very bright or sunny rooms.
6. LG 75-Inch Class NANO75 4K Smart TV
Specification
- Screen Size: 75 Inches
- Brand: LG
- Supported Internet Services: Netflix, HBO Max, Prime Video, Apple TV, Disney+ and more
- Display Technology: LED
- Resolution: 4K
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Special Feature Nano Color; Billion Rich Colors; Active HDR; Bluetooth Surround Ready; Google STADIA; NVIDIA GEFORCE NOWNano Color; Billion Rich Colors; Active HDR; Bluetooth Surround Ready; Google STADIA; NVIDIA GEFORCE NOW
- Image remains consistent at a moderate viewing angle
- Great selection of streaming apps.
- Lower resolution content like DVDs or cable TV is upscaled well.
- Low contrast results in grayish blacks in a dark room.
- Sub-par peak brightness.
7. VIZIO V-Series 50” Class
Specification
- Screen Size: 50 Inches
- Brand: VIZIO
- Supported Internet Services: Netflix, Hulu, Vudu, Amazon Instant Video, YouTube
- Display Technology: LED
- Resolution: 4K
- Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
- Special Feature: 4K UHD Picture; High Dynamic Range; Voice Control
- Excellent contrast ratio.
- Good reflection handling.
- Doesn't get very bright.
- Poor viewing angles.
8. Sony 43 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV X85K Series
Specification
- Screen Size: 43 Inches
- Brand: Sony
- Supported Internet Services: Amazon Instant Video, Hulu Plus, Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max
- Display Technology: LCD
- Resolution: 4K
- Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
- Amazing native contrast ratio.
- Great SDR peak brightness.
- Reflections from moderate light sources aren't distracting.
- No issues upscaling lower-resolution content.
- Lacks a local dimming feature.
- Narrow viewing angle.
9. Sceptre UTV 50" Class 4K LED TV
Specification
- Screen Size: 50 Inches
- Brand: Sceptre
- Display Technology: LED
- Resolution: 4K
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Special Feature: Flat
- Model Name: U50
- Included Components: Display, Stand (Left & Right), User Guide, Warranty Card, Screws for Stand, Remote Control
- Connectivity Technology: HDMI
- Large 50-inch screen
- Good sound quality
- Respectable lag times for gaming
- Low-res, dumb TV
- Multiple picture quality problems
- Weak volume
10. SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class QLED Q70A
Specification
- Screen Size: 65 Inches
- Brand: SAMSUNG
- Supported Internet Services: Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and More
- Display Technology: QLED
- Resolution: 4K
- Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
- Special Feature: 100% Color Volume with Quantum Dot; Quantum HDR, Quantum Processor 4K; Motion Xcelerator Turbo+; Dual LED100% Color Volume with Quantum Dot; Quantum HDR, Quantum Processor 4K; Motion Xcelerator Turbo+; Dual LED
- Exceptionally high contrast ratio.
- Bright enough to overcome glare.
- Impressive response time delivers smooth motion.
- No local dimming.
- Image loses accuracy as you move off-center.
Factors to consider when choosing the best 4K TVs
If you haven’t purchased a new television set within the last ten years, you may or may not be aware of the extent of change. Remember when HD broadcasting was first introduced, and 1080p flatscreens were all the rage? Most televisions with a screen size of 40 inches or greater now support 4K and 8K resolution, making 1080p a secondary option for larger displays.
In addition to higher pixel counts, modern televisions feature a variety of lighting and screen styles, with QLEDs and OLEDs representing the best televisions available. Purchasing a new TV can become a never-ending cycle of research and second-guessing when you consider factors such as the type of HDMI ports you need, intelligent features, screen size, and overall cost.
However, this TV buying guide will explain everything in straightforward language. In the end, you will know precisely which features to seek out and which ones you can forego to get the best deal on the best new television for your home.
Size and setup
When shopping for a new television, the size of your entertainment room is the first thing to consider. Remember that TV screens are measured diagonally, so when you see a TV with a diagonal measurement of 65 inches, this refers to the diagonal size, not the height or width. These dimensions can be found on the product page of television and are frequently mentioned in reviews. Most living rooms can accommodate a 50-inch or giant television, but you can go as large as your entertainment center and your budget will allow.
There are numerous online resources for calculating the optimal size-to-viewing-distance ratios, allowing you to find the optimal combination for you and your space.
If you intend to use a TV stand, you must account for its dimensions in your calculations to ensure a proper fit. It is also important to note that an increasing number of televisions are mounted on legs rather than bases, necessitating additional space.
Those wall-mounting this item will be pleased to learn that weight is not an issue. There are mounts for every size and weight, and we have a buying guide for wall mounts to help you select the right one. If you need assistance with the actual process of mounting your television, we can also assist you.
Resolution
The term “4K” refers to the resolution of 4K televisions. Even though 4K TVs don’t have 4,000 horizontal lines of resolution (it’s 3,840), the term is catchy and easier to remember than “2160p,” “4K Ultra HD,” or “UHD.” Regardless of what you call it, it refers to a standard for the number of pixels used to create the image you see on-screen.
The difference is significant with four times the pixel resolution of the previous standard, 1080p HD, mainly when these televisions display native 4K content. Images are more distinct, fine details are visible, and you can sit closer to larger televisions without noticing any image degradation.
Indeed, some manufacturers continue to produce 1080p and 720p displays, but they are typically the lowest-quality models with the most petite screen sizes in a given manufacturer’s lineup. A few years ago, it made sense to consider one of these models if you wanted to save money, but now that a 50-inch 4K TV can be purchased for $300 or less, only those with the smallest budgets should consider TVs with lower resolution. Indeed, we are beginning to observe a variety of 6K and 8K displays as 4K prices continue to fall, and the cycle repeats slowly.
While it’s true that broadcast content has been painfully slow to catch up to 4K, we expect this to change rapidly now that ATSC 3.0 has been implemented and is compatible with multiple TV brands and set-top boxes. Moreover, while this upgrade continues to roll out, streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Vudu continue to add numerous 4K movies and television shows to their respective libraries.
What’s with 8K?
Even though we’re still ramping up to 4K support in total, 8K is already available in stores. Even though only a few models exist, Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL, and Hisense all produce 8K televisions.
8K televisions pack eight times as many pixels into the same space as 1080p HD televisions or four times as many as 4K televisions. Although 8K televisions were initially quite expensive, a 65-inch 8K television can now be purchased for as little as $999. But should you buy it
Our current recommendation is no unless you have a large budget and a strong desire to own cutting-edge technology. Native 8K content is still extremely scarce. YouTube and Vimeo offer 8K videos, which will undoubtedly look spectacular on an 8K television, but they are more of a demonstration than a reliable source of 8K entertainment. Outside the United States, 8K sources are typically reserved for special events and promotions. Although some 8K content has been shot by streaming services such as Netflix, it is being released in the 4K format. There are a few notable exceptions, such as the NHK BS8K channel in Japan, which is dedicated to 8K content.
However, if you join the 8K bandwagon, we recommend a minimum screen size of 85 inches. These are large televisions, but that’s the point: 8K’s advantages are much more apparent on larger screens than on smaller ones.
HDR
HDR is an abbreviation for high dynamic range. As far as we’re concerned, it’s a much more impressive improvement to overall picture quality than resolution alone when it’s properly implemented. HDR enhances the vibrancy and realism of images through increased brightness, contrast, and color gamut — the total number of colors a television can display. Once you have witnessed HDR in action, you will never want to return to SDR (standard dynamic range).
We’ve compiled an in-depth explainer on HDR TV, which we strongly suggest you read before purchasing a new TV, but the most important thing to know is that while nearly all 4K TVs sold today are also HDR TVs, not all HDR TVs are created equal. There can be vast differences in quality, and some HDR televisions lack the necessary components to make the most of this new video format.
You should also be aware that HDR is not a single format but a collection of formats, including HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+. Therefore, your TV must support the same HDR format as your HDR video, or you will not obtain optimal results.
Before making a purchase, you should read product reviews to determine how the HDR features of a particular TV compare to those of others in its price range, including brightness levels, contrast, and overall picture quality.
Remember that to enjoy the benefits of an HDR television; you must have a source of HDR video. Currently, streaming services (the major ones have all added HDR support to select 4K movies and shows) or a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player with HDR-produced 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray discs.
Refresh rate
The refresh rate of a television is the number of individual frames it can display per second, measured in hertz (Hz). Manufacturers refer to refresh rates in two distinct ways: native and effective.
The rate at which a television displays motion is determined by its native refresh rate. You generally want a 120Hz native refresh rate if you can get it, though some excellent 60Hz televisions are available.
Remember that only certain types of content benefit from higher refresh rates, with sports being the poster child for 120Hz televisions. The thrill of fast-paced games such as hockey or motorsports is amplified when details are visible instead of blurred.
Average filmed entertainment, such as movies and television shows, can be distorted by increasing the refresh rate, resulting in the “soap opera effect.” Don’t worry; adjusting these settings is simple, so everything appears as intended.
The effective refresh rate of a television refers to its digital image processing. This term appears on televisions with a refresh rate greater than 120Hz. We advise ignoring anything above 120Hz. There is no such thing as a genuinely native 240Hz TV — TVs only support 60Hz and 120Hz (for now).
Smart TVs
A smart TV connects directly to the internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable (usually both) and includes built-in streaming applications such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO, etc. Like 4K and HDR, nearly all televisions today are smart.
However, there are significant differences between smart televisions due to the software utilized by each manufacturer. LG uses its proprietary WebOS software, Samsung employs its Tizen operating system, and Vizio calls its platform SmartCast. Each of these provides access to popular streaming services. Vizio’s system also includes Chromecast’s casting feature, which allows you to send content from your smartphone or tablet to your television.
However, you should be aware of three additional smart TV platforms. Android TV is Google’s platform for smart televisions that is based on its popular Android mobile operating system. It provides all of the features of a Google Chromecast device and access to hundreds of apps via the Google Play Store.
While Hisense and Philips continue to use Android TV, the smart TV platform has been upgraded to a new system called Google TV, which is already being integrated into several new Sony, Hisense, and TCL TVs, as well as the Chromecast with Google TV.
Roku TVs manufactured by TCL, Toshiba, Hisense, and others include all Roku streamer features. The Roku interface is used for all TV functions, including switching inputs and watching broadcast television. Some Roku televisions are now as good as or better than the leading smart televisions from other manufacturers.
Finally, there is Fire TV Edition TVs: Smart TVs that utilize Amazon’s Fire TV streaming platform, similar to how Roku TVs use Roku’s software. These are currently manufactured by Amazon, Insignia, and Toshiba and are typically positioned at the bottom of the market in terms of size, price, and features.
Newer TV models also include Apple AirPlay 2 compatibility, which functions similarly to Chromecast but is exclusive to Apple devices.
Integrating streaming applications and other services directly into the television frees up space and HDMI ports. You can upgrade any TV with a streaming device, such as the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max or Roku Streaming Stick 4K, or use set-top boxes, such as the Nvidia Shield, to obtain all of these innovative TV features in a convenient package. This is significant because many innovative TV interfaces leave much to be desired.
FAQs
Due to the enhanced resolution and pixel density, you can sit closer to the screen to maximize your viewing experience. And expanding your field of view results in a more immersive experience.
While sitting close provides the most significant impact, we reject the notion that distant viewing positions offer no advantage. Objects within the image retain their three-dimensional appearance, as well as their cleanly drawn lines, real depth, and subtle hues.
If you prefer streaming services, Netflix, Amazon Video, Disney+, and Apple TV+ are your primary options.
We should note that almost all of Netflix’s original content is encoded in 4K Dolby Vision (but not everything), and most of Amazon’s and Disney’s new content, especially their flagship original series and films, is available in 4K. With a few exceptions, Apple’s streaming library is almost entirely in 4K.
BT has a 4K channel on BT Sport Ultra HD that broadcasts Premier League and Champions League football, but you’ll need a BT Ultra-HD box and a 4K TV package to view it.
The Sky Q/Glass service allows users to watch the broadcaster’s expanding library of 4K films, TV shows, and sports with their Ultra HD package.
To stream 4K content, Netflix and Amazon require speeds of at least 15 Mbps. Rates must remain consistently at or above that threshold because the image will revert to standard definition as soon as they drop.
It’s common for streaming services to begin with a lower resolution and then increase it to UHD after the initial buffering period.
Netflix specifies a minimum download speed of 25Mbps on its website. However, we’ve confirmed with Netflix that 15Mbps is sufficient. With the evolution of compression techniques and broadband speeds, 4K streaming is now more reliable than in the past.
Although we would not say that it offers the best 4K picture (4K Blu-rays).
Since the introduction of the digital connection, there have been multiple versions/standards of HDMI, with HDMI 2.1 being the most recent.
At the time of its release, HDMI 2.0 featured an increase in data bandwidth, allowing for the playback of 4K feeds with complete (so-called 4:4:4) color sampling at up to 60 frames per second. HDMI 1.4 only supported 4K at 30 frames per second.
It has since been superseded by HDMI 2.1, which increases the bandwidth to 48gbps (from 18gbps in HDMI 2.0). v2.1 supports 4K and 120fps, in addition to a passthrough of dynamic HDR formats such as Dolby Vision and HDR10+, and a great deal more.
Most TVs support HDMI 2.0, and a fair number support HDMI 2.1, so it should not be difficult to feed 4K content into your TV.
Yes. The 4K ecosystem has matured, with a plethora of content now available in the format, and 4K TVs have been available at affordable prices for several years. The advantages of 4K over HD are crystal clear (quite literally), as 4K provides more detail, texture, and fidelity than HD. Furthermore, 4K has enabled technologies such as HDR and WCG (Wide Colour Gamut) to emerge, resulting in a more vibrant, lifelike, and realistic image.
More expensive TVs offer superior performance, but cheaper 4K TVs are more capable of handling native 4K content. 8K will not be widely adopted for some time, so you can safely purchase and enjoy your 4K television.
Conclusion
Hopefully, we have clarified some more recent TV terms and trends. Now that you have all the necessary knowledge, we suggest you peruse our list of the best available televisions. Also, be sure to read our most recent TV reviews to arm yourself with knowledge about the newest and most advanced 4K televisions on the market.
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